The actual Super Bowl was just held in Las Vegas last year, so it's only fitting that WrestleMania, often referred to as the Super Bowl of Wrestling, follows suit. For the first time in 32 years, WrestleMania returns to Las Vegas, bringing a buzz to the valley.
It goes without saying that Sin City is amped up for a week-long celebration of wrestling as World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) brings its marquee event, WrestleMania, to Allegiant Stadium this weekend.
WrestleMania never fails to draw large crowds; this year, it's expected to attract around 180,000 visitors. The influx will see over 144,000 incremental hotel room nights occupied across the city, significantly boosting the local economy.
The last WrestleMania event in Las Vegas was held in 1993 at Caesars Palace. That was WrestleMania IX.
An Unprecedented Week of WrestleMania Events
The anticipation is palpable, with rumors swirling about a possible appearance by NFL legend Tom Brady, a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. Brady joining the fray would add to the star-studded lineup of guest athletes who have graced the WWE ring.
WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas will feature an exciting card, highlighted by matchups such as:
- Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena
- Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins in a Triple Threat Match
- IYO SKY vs. Bianca Belair vs. Rhea Ripley
- Gunther vs. Jey Uso
Tiffany Stratton will defend her WWE Women's Championship against Charlotte Flair, and AJ Styles will face Logan Paul. Additionally, there will be a Fatal 4-Way Intercontinental Championship match featuring Bron Breakker, Penta, Finn Bálor, and Dominik Mysterio.
Celebrities in the Ring
WrestleMania has a storied history of featuring big names from the sports world. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes made a splash on "Monday Night Raw" last year, dazzling the crowd by flaunting his Super Bowl rings and eyeing WWE giant Braun Strowman.
This tradition of sports stars crossing over into the wrestling world continues to be a fan favorite, with past appearances by NFL stars Jason Kelce and Lane Johnson. Their surprise involvement helped WWE icons Rey Mysterio and Andrade to victory.
The History of WrestleMania
WrestleMania, which first took place in 1985, has become the cornerstone event of professional wrestling.
Conceived by WWE chairman Vince McMahon, it was designed to be a spectacle that combines sports and entertainment on a grand scale. Over the years, it has attracted a diverse audience, from die-hard wrestling fans to curious onlookers, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.
One of the most memorable WrestleMania moments occurred in 1995 when Pro Football Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor squared off against Bam Bam Bigelow in the main event of WrestleMania XI — a match that Taylor famously won. The blend of wrestling and mainstream celebrity appearances has continued to evolve, making it a highly anticipated event for fans worldwide.
Rising Excitement in Las Vegas
For fans, the excitement won’t just be confined to the stadium. Events are scheduled all week throughout the Las Vegas Strip and downtown, with local casinos hosting official watch parties.
SmackDown, Raw, the Hall of Fame ceremony, NXT Stand & Deliver, and both nights of WrestleMania 41, all happening over a four-day span, add to the excitement.
Local wrestling enthusiasts and visitors alike are eagerly preparing for the high-octane action that will unfold. If you're one of them and looking for a way to pass the time, you might be tempted by themed casino slot games like "Lucha Loot" at Party Casino. At El Carnaval de Luchadores, you cheer for the wrestler to show off his best moves in the ring. His name is a mystery, and his impressive techniques always catch his opponent off guard. He's quick, powerful, and the hero of the town. He is the great MISTERIO.
If you're really desperate, High 5 Casino offers "Let’s Get Ready to Rumble," a boxing game aimed at immersing everyone in the wrestling ambiance.
As the curtains lift on WrestleMania 41 this weekend, Las Vegas is set to become the epicenter of sports entertainment. Whether you're a wrestling veteran or a newcomer to this vibrant world, this year's WrestleMania is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience.
